A CHURCH in South Tyneside is being given a makeover by offenders who are paying off their debt to society.
Community Payback workers, supervised by Northumbria Probation Trust, are painting fencing at St Oswald’s Church in Gainsborough Avenue, Whiteleas, South Shields, as part of their sentence.
The area was highlighted as a suitable project after parishioners contacted local councillors through the community area forum, which paid for the paint and brushes.
Coun Ernest Gibson said: “The fencing around St Oswald’s Church was in desperate need of a new coat of paint. Working with Northumbria Probation Trust, we were able to arrange to have this done as part of the Community Payback scheme.
“I am delighted with the work so far, which will be completed once the weather improves.” Coun Bill Brady added: “It is good to see offenders putting something back into the community for the benefit of others.
Mick O’Neill, Community Payback co-ordinator for South Tyneside, added: “We are really pleased to be able to support local communities.
“The offenders are working very hard to improve the appearance of the church grounds, so local people can enjoy the surroundings.
“They have made a constructive contribution to the community and, in turn, the work will help break the cycle of their offending.”
The unpaid work forms part of the offenders’ sentence imposed by the courts, and can be anything from 40 to 300 hours for each individual.
If you have a suitable Community Payback project in mind, visit www.northumbria-probation.co.uk.
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